Author: Web Rock Radio News Dept

Dire Straits carved out a singular space in rock history with their meticulous musicianship, wry storytelling, and Mark Knopfler’s unmistakable guitar work. While the band often leaned into intricate arrangements and nuanced lyricism, they also had a raw, unshakable energy that fueled some of their most electrifying songs. Their ability to blend blues, rock, and a touch of folk gave them a sound that was both refined and deeply rooted in classic rock traditions. This list focuses on ten tracks that showcase Dire Straits at their most commanding, where the guitars rang out with precision, the rhythms drove forward relentlessly, and the songwriting packed a punch.

“Down to the Waterline” set the tone for the band’s debut with a moody and cinematic introduction that erupted into a tight, blues-driven rocker, capturing Knopfler’s gift for atmosphere and narrative. “Heavy Fuel” embraced excess with tongue-in-cheek bravado, layering gritty guitar licks over a pulsing groove that made its satirical bite hit even harder. “Lady Writer” channeled the spirit of “Sultans of Swing” with its rapid-fire picking and sharp lyricism, offering a dynamic burst of energy on Communiqué. “Industrial Disease” delivered biting social commentary wrapped in one of the band’s most playfully frantic arrangements, proving that their wit was just as sharp as their instrumentation. “The Bug” kept the momentum high with a rollicking shuffle beat and lyrics that underscored life’s unpredictability with a knowing grin.

“Twisting by the Pool” found Dire Straits momentarily shedding their introspective tendencies in favor of a swinging rockabilly-inspired romp, proving they could let loose with the best of them. “Money for Nothing” roared with one of rock’s most iconic guitar riffs, a track that balanced satire with sheer stadium-sized power. “Tunnel of Love” built from a delicate intro into a sweeping, theatrical rock epic, fueled by some of Knopfler’s most emotional and expressive guitar work. “Sultans of Swing” became the band’s defining moment, a masterclass in fluid, intricate playing and evocative storytelling that cemented their place in rock’s upper echelon. “Walk of Life” closed the list with its rollicking energy, proof that Dire Straits could craft a crowd-pleasing anthem without sacrificing their signature musicianship.

# 10 – Down to the Waterline – Dire Straits

“Down to the Waterline” opened Dire Straits, the band’s 1978 debut album, with an atmospheric and evocative introduction that set the tone for their signature sound. Recorded at Basing Street Studios in London, the track was produced by Muff Winwood and featured Mark Knopfler on lead vocals and lead guitar, David Knopfler on rhythm guitar, John Illsley on bass, and Pick Withers on drums. The song was originally part of the demo tape that helped the band secure their record deal with Phonogram Records, making it one of the earliest glimpses into the band’s unique style.

Musically, the track showcases Knopfler’s masterful fingerpicking technique, which would become a defining characteristic of Dire Straits. The opening guitar tones are drenched in reverb, mimicking the sound of foghorns, immediately transporting the listener to the misty docks that serve as the song’s setting. The rhythm section provides a smooth yet dynamic foundation, allowing the lead guitar work to weave effortlessly around the verses. As the song builds, it maintains an understated intensity, blending blues influences with the clean, precise arrangements that would set Dire Straits apart from their contemporaries.

“Down to the Waterline” reflects Knopfler’s ability to tell vivid, cinematic stories through song. The lyrics depict a fleeting romance by the water, laced with nostalgia and longing. Lines such as “sweet surrender on the quay” suggest both passion and melancholy, a recurring theme in Knopfler’s songwriting. The track’s sense of place and time, combined with its crisp instrumentation, made it an unforgettable introduction to Dire Straits, setting the stage for what would become one of the most distinctive bands in rock history.

# 9 – Heavy Fuel – On Every Street

“Heavy Fuel” was recorded for Dire Straits’ sixth studio album, On Every Street, which was released on September 9, 1991. The track was produced by Mark Knopfler and co-produced by the band, and it was recorded at AIR Studios in London between November 1990 and May 1991. The recording featured the classic Dire Straits lineup: Mark Knopfler on lead vocals and guitar, John Illsley on bass, Alan Clark and Guy Fletcher on keyboards, and Jeff Porcaro on drums. The song was subsequently released as a single on October 21, 1991, and it reached number one on the U.S. Billboard Album Rock Tracks chart.

Musically, “Heavy Fuel” is driven by Knopfler’s precise, finger-picked guitar work and his distinctive vocal delivery, which together create a textured sound that is both forceful and ironic. Lyrically, the song satirized the indulgence in various vices—cigarettes, hamburgers, Scotch, lust, money, and violence—drawing inspiration from Martin Amis’s novel Money, as evidenced by the recurring line, “You got to run on heavy fuel.” This clever juxtaposition of rock energy and wry commentary on excess exemplified the band’s ability to blend thoughtful storytelling with their signature musical craftsmanship.

Critically, “Heavy Fuel” was noted for its engaging riff and its biting, observational lyrics. Its commercial success, marked by topping the Billboard Album Rock Tracks chart, underscored its appeal among fans and its standing as one of Dire Straits’ more assertive offerings. The track’s ability to capture the essence of rock’s relentless pace, while offering a satirical look at modern indulgences, made it a compelling component of On Every Street and a memorable entry in Dire Straits’ discography.

# 8 – Lady Writer – Communiqué

“Lady Writer” opened a new chapter in Dire Straits’ sonic evolution on the album Communiqué in 1979. Recorded at Basing Street Studios in London in August 1978, the track was produced by the band and led by the inimitable Mark Knopfler. Alongside Knopfler on lead vocals and guitar, the recording featured David Knopfler on rhythm guitar, John Illsley on bass, and Pick Withers on drums. Initially released as a single in March 1979, the song quickly climbed the charts, reaching number 13 in the UK. Its precise, clean guitar lines and understated groove offered a refreshing contrast to the band’s more narrative-driven compositions, setting the stage for a distinctive lyrical journey.

Musically, “Lady Writer” is defined by its crisp, finger-picked guitar riff and laid-back tempo, which together evoke a cool, reflective atmosphere. Knopfler’s vocal delivery, characterized by its subtle inflection and dry wit, imbued the lyrics with a sense of mystery about the titular “lady writer”—a figure whose identity remains intriguingly ambiguous. The song’s arrangement demonstrated Dire Straits’ flair for blending rock and pop sensibilities with a touch of jazz, distinguishing it from contemporaries while maintaining a timeless quality. This carefully crafted sonic environment contributed to the track’s success and enduring appeal among fans of the band’s refined yet accessible style.

Lyrically, “Lady Writer” offered an enigmatic narrative that left room for interpretation, hinting at the experiences of being observed and critiqued by the media while maintaining an air of detached coolness. Its subtle irony and observational style resonated with listeners, cementing its place as one of Dire Straits’ most compelling songs.

# 7 – Industrial Disease – Love over Gold

“Industrial Disease” was recorded for Dire Straits’ sixth studio album, Love Over Gold, released in 1980. The song was produced by Mark Knopfler, who led the recording sessions that took place at Britannia Row Studios in London between 1979 and 1980. The track featured the classic Dire Straits lineup: Mark Knopfler on lead vocals and guitar, John Illsley on bass, Alan Clark and Guy Fletcher on keyboards, and Pick Withers on drums. Originally part of a broader conceptual album, the song captured the band’s ability to blend rock with incisive social commentary.

Musically, “Industrial Disease” was driven by Knopfler’s fluid, yet deliberate guitar work and a rhythm section that provided a steady, unyielding groove. Lyrically, the track presented a wry, satirical observation of modern society’s ills—using the notion of “industrial disease” as a metaphor for the myriad physical and social ailments afflicting an era of rampant industrialization. Knopfler’s lyrics, laced with irony and humor, critiqued everything from corporate greed to everyday vices, painting a vivid picture of a society grappling with its own self-destruction. This clever juxtaposition of biting commentary and smooth musicality set the song apart from more straightforward rock anthems.

# 6 – The Bug – On Every Street

“The Bug” was Dire Straits’ way of reminding listeners that life is a game of chance—one moment you’re in control, the next you’re at the mercy of fate. Written by Mark Knopfler, the song was recorded at AIR Studios in London between November 1990 and May 1991. The lineup featured Knopfler on lead vocals and guitar, John Illsley on bass, Alan Clark and Guy Fletcher on keyboards, and Jeff Porcaro on drums. Knopfler co-produced the album alongside Dire Straits, ensuring a polished yet organic sound that reflected the band’s evolution.

Though “The Bug” never gained widespread attention as a single in the U.S., it was released in the U.K. in 1992, where it reached number 67 on the singles chart. The song later appeared on the 1993 live EP Encores, capturing the band’s ability to transform studio tracks into engaging concert performances. Lyrically, the song’s chorus—”Sometimes you’re the windshield, sometimes you’re the bug”—delivers a simple but powerful truth about life’s unpredictable nature. The track’s upbeat, rockabilly-influenced groove adds a sense of irony, as the lyrics contrast the lively, carefree instrumentation with the sobering reality of life’s ups and downs.

# 5 – Twisting By The Pool – Extended Play

“Twisting by the Pool” captured a side of Dire Straits that the band rarely displayed—a lighthearted, rockabilly-infused track that leaned heavily into vintage rhythm and blues. Released on January 10, 1983, as part of the Extended Play EP, the song was recorded in November 1982 at Compass Point Studios in Nassau, Bahamas. Mark Knopfler, who wrote the song, led the band through an upbeat, energetic session that departed from the group’s more signature introspective style. Alongside Knopfler on lead vocals and guitar, the track featured Hal Lindes on rhythm guitar, Alan Clark on keyboards, John Illsley on bass, and Terry Williams on drums. Production was handled by Knopfler alongside Neil Dorfsman, who had previously worked with the band on Love Over Gold.

Despite its playful and danceable nature, “Twisting by the Pool” still retained Knopfler’s sharp lyrical wit. The lyrics painted a scene of carefree leisure, nodding to the early rock and roll era, with references to classic 1950s dance crazes. Lines like “We’re going on a holiday now / Gonna take a villa, a small chalet” highlighted the escapist fantasy at the heart of the song. The sound was a stark contrast to the more complex and atmospheric tracks from Love Over Gold, making it one of the most straightforward rock-and-roll compositions in Dire Straits’ catalog. It charted well, reaching number 14 on the UK Singles Chart and gaining significant radio airplay, particularly in Europe and Australia.

Within the broader scope of Dire Straits’ more rocking tracks, “Twisting by the Pool” stood out as a rare instance of the band fully embracing an old-school rock and roll aesthetic. Unlike the brooding storytelling of “Down to the Waterline” or the wry social commentary of “Industrial Disease,” this track thrived on sheer fun and musical looseness. Its lively swing, infectious hooks, and danceable rhythm made it a unique entry in the band’s discography, proving that even a group known for sophisticated songwriting could deliver a straightforward rock and roll anthem with ease.

# 4 – Money For Nothing – Brothers in Arms

“Money for Nothing” captured the excess and contradictions of the 1980s, blending Dire Straits’ signature guitar-driven rock with biting social commentary. Released as the second single from Brothers in Arms on June 24, 1985, the song was recorded at AIR Studios in Montserrat between October 1984 and February 1985. Produced by Mark Knopfler and Neil Dorfsman, the track featured Knopfler on lead vocals and guitar, John Illsley on bass, Alan Clark on keyboards, and Terry Williams on drums, with guest vocals by Sting, who co-wrote the song and sang the now-iconic “I want my MTV” refrain.

Lyrically, “Money for Nothing” presented a cynical view of the rock and roll lifestyle through the lens of a working-class man watching music videos in an appliance store. The lyrics, inspired by a conversation Knopfler overheard between delivery workers, depicted their resentment toward rock stars who seemingly achieved wealth and fame effortlessly. Lines such as “That ain’t workin’, that’s the way you do it” and “Money for nothing and your chicks for free” reinforced the song’s satirical tone. Musically, the track was driven by Knopfler’s searing, distorted guitar riff, achieved using a Gibson Les Paul Junior plugged into a Laney amp, which gave it a raw, aggressive edge. The song’s structure, shifting between the heavy riff-driven verses and Sting’s ethereal falsetto, created a dynamic contrast that contributed to its commercial success.

“Money for Nothing” became one of Dire Straits’ biggest hits, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 4 on the UK Singles Chart. It won a Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal and was a cornerstone of Brothers in Arms, an album that topped charts worldwide and became one of the best-selling albums of all time. Compared to other rocking tracks on this list, the song stood out for its anthemic quality and scathing social critique, in contrast to the playful nostalgia of “Twisting by the Pool” or the observational wit of “Industrial Disease.” Its impact was further amplified by its music video, which used early CGI animation, making it a defining visual of the MTV era.

# 3 – Tunnel Of Love – Making Movies

“Tunnel of Love” showcased Dire Straits at their most cinematic, blending storytelling lyricism with an electrifying musical arrangement. Released as the opening track on Making Movies on October 17, 1980, the song was recorded at Power Station Studios in New York City between June and August of that year. Produced by Jimmy Iovine and Mark Knopfler, the track featured Knopfler on lead vocals and guitar, John Illsley on bass, and Pick Withers on drums. Roy Bittan of the E Street Band contributed keyboards, adding a Springsteen-esque depth to the song’s grand, sweeping arrangement. The track also carried an unmistakable theatrical quality, enhanced by its opening section—an adaptation of “The Carousel Waltz” by Rodgers and Hammerstein.

Lyrically, “Tunnel of Love” painted a vivid portrait of fleeting romance and youthful nostalgia set against the backdrop of a carnival. Knopfler’s lyrics—“It was just the night for a ramble / And you had that look in your eye”—captured the rush of excitement and inevitable heartbreak that accompanied young love. The carnival metaphor underscored the song’s themes of transience, emphasizing the bittersweet nature of its protagonist’s memories. Musically, Knopfler’s intricate fingerpicking and dynamic lead guitar work gave the track a driving momentum, culminating in one of his most emotive solos. The song’s soaring outro, layered with cascading arpeggios and impassioned vocals, cemented it as one of the band’s most anthemic moments.

“Tunnel of Love” became a staple of Dire Straits’ live performances, often extended with even more elaborate guitar work. Though it was not a major chart hit, it remained one of the band’s most beloved tracks, particularly in the UK, where it was released as a single in 1981. Compared to other songs on this list, “Tunnel of Love” stood apart for its sweeping, cinematic scope, contrasting with the biting satire of “Money for Nothing” and the playful energy of “Twisting by the Pool.” Its combination of intricate storytelling, anthemic instrumentation, and one of Knopfler’s most memorable guitar solos made it a defining track of Making Movies and one of the band’s most enduring rock epics.

# 2 – Sultans Of Swing – Dire Straits

“Sultans of Swing” introduced Dire Straits to the world, blending intricate guitar work with sharp observational storytelling. The song was originally recorded as a demo in 1977 at Pathway Studios in London, where it caught the attention of BBC Radio London and led to a record deal with Phonogram Records. The official recording was produced by Muff Winwood at Basing Street Studios in London for the band’s self-titled debut album, Dire Straits, which was released on October 7, 1978. Mark Knopfler led the lineup on vocals and guitar, backed by David Knopfler on rhythm guitar, John Illsley on bass, and Pick Withers on drums.

Lyrically, “Sultans of Swing” chronicled a scene from a small-time jazz band performing in a nearly empty pub, capturing the unglamorous reality of musicians playing for the love of the music rather than fame. Knopfler’s understated, talk-sung delivery reinforced the song’s realism, while his signature fingerpicking guitar style gave the track its distinctive, fluid sound. The lyrics—“They don’t give a damn about any trumpet-playing band / It ain’t what they call rock and roll”—underscored the divide between commercial success and artistic passion. The song’s extended outro, built around Knopfler’s melodic soloing, cemented it as one of the defining guitar tracks of the era.

Upon release, “Sultans of Swing” became the band’s breakthrough hit, reaching No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 8 on the UK Singles Chart. Compared to other songs on this list, its jazz-influenced guitar work set it apart from the high-energy riffing of “Money for Nothing” or the cinematic sweep of “Tunnel of Love.” The track’s technical mastery and storytelling flair ensured its place as one of the most celebrated rock songs of the late ’70s, solidifying Dire Straits’ reputation as one of the most innovative bands of their generation.

Read More: Complete List Of Dire Straits Band Members

# 1 – Walk Of Life – Brothers in Arms

“Walk of Life” captured the energetic, roots-driven side of Dire Straits, offering a contrast to the more atmospheric and polished tracks on Brothers in Arms. Recorded at AIR Studios in Montserrat in 1984, the song was produced by Mark Knopfler and Neil Dorfsman and featured Knopfler on lead vocals and guitar, John Illsley on bass, Alan Clark and Guy Fletcher on keyboards, and Terry Williams on drums. The track showcased Knopfler’s distinctive fingerpicking guitar style and a signature keyboard riff that gave it an instantly recognizable sound.

Lyrically, “Walk of Life” celebrated the struggles and triumphs of a street performer playing music for a living. Lines like “Here comes Johnny singing oldies, goldies” painted a picture of a musician who brought joy to passersby despite the hardships of life on the road. The song’s upbeat melody and driving rhythm made it one of the most radio-friendly tracks on Brothers in Arms, a contrast to the heavier themes explored in “Money for Nothing” and “Tunnel of Love.” Its infectious energy and call-and-response chorus made it a natural fit for live performances, further solidifying its reputation as one of the band’s most uplifting rockers.

Released as the album’s third single, “Walk of Life” achieved significant chart success, reaching No. 2 in the UK and No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100. Compared to the blues-infused guitar work of “Sultans of Swing,” the song leaned more toward a rockabilly and country-influenced style, reinforcing Dire Straits’ versatility. As the final entry on this list, it encapsulated the band’s ability to balance musicianship with mainstream appeal, securing its place as one of their most enduring rock anthems.

Read More: Complete List Of Dire Straits Albums And Discography

Read More: Artists’ Interviews Directory At ClassicRockHistory.com

Read More: Classic Rock Bands List And Directory

10 Most Rocking Dire Straits Songs article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2024

Brian Kachejian 12 minutes ago

Feature Photo:Raph_PH, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Kensington, London, December 25, 1971—a fittingly unique birthplace and date for an artist who would become synonymous with a distinct and timeless voice. Dido Florian Cloud de Bounevialle O’Malley Armstrong, known simply as Dido, grew up immersed in a creative household, with her father’s publishing background and her mother’s work as a poet shaping her artistic sensibilities. From these early roots, Dido’s journey began, evolving from a classically trained musician at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama to one of the most influential and best-selling artists of her time.

Dido’s rise to fame came through her debut album, No Angel (1999), a work that initially gained modest attention before exploding into the mainstream. With hits like “Here with Me” and “Thank You,” the album sold over 21 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling albums of its era. Her voice’s haunting quality and her lyrics’ intimate storytelling struck a chord with listeners globally, and the sample of “Thank You” in Eminem’s chart-topping “Stan” further cemented her place in music history.

Her sophomore effort, Life for Rent (2003), brought further success, with the enduring hit “White Flag” showcasing her ability to craft poignant, universally resonant songs. The album dominated charts, demonstrating Dido’s knack for balancing commercial appeal with emotional authenticity. Over time, she continued to expand her artistic repertoire with albums like Safe Trip Home (2008), Girl Who Got Away (2013), and Still on My Mind (2019), each showcasing her evolution while maintaining the essence that fans fell in love with.

Dido’s accolades include multiple Brit Awards and an MTV Europe Music Award, alongside nominations for Grammy and Academy Awards. Her collaboration with Eminem, her understated yet commanding presence, and her ability to stay true to her artistry while achieving global fame set her apart in a rapidly changing music industry.

Above all, it’s Dido’s connection to her audience that remains at the heart of her enduring appeal. This A-to-Z catalog of her songs celebrates not only her remarkable discography but also the profound emotional resonance she continues to bring to listeners around the world.

(A – I)

“7 Seconds” – Live 8 (2005)
“All I See” – Girl Who Got Away (2013)
“All You Want” – No Angel (1999)
“Blackbird” – Girl Who Got Away (2013)
“Burnin’ Love” – Safe Trip Home (2008)
“Christmas Day” – Platinum Christmas (2000)
“Closer” – Life for Rent (2003) (Hidden Track)
“Day Before We Went to War” – Girl Who Got Away (2013)
“Do They Know It’s Christmas?” – Non-album Single (2004)
“Don’t Believe in Love” – Safe Trip Home (2008)
“Don’t Leave Home” – Life for Rent (2003)
“Don’t Think of Me” – No Angel (1999)
“Do You Have a Little Time” – Life for Rent (2003)
“Dub Be Good to Me” – War Child: 1 Love (2000)
“End of Night” – Girl Who Got Away (2013)
“Everything to Lose” – Girl Who Got Away (2013) (Bonus Track)
“Feelin’ Good” – The Dance (2000)
“Feels Like Fire” – Shaman (2002)
“Fire and Rain” – Sounds Eclectic: The Covers Project (2007)
“For One Day” – Safe Trip Home (2008)
“Girl Who Got Away” – Girl Who Got Away (2013)
“Go Dreaming” – Girl Who Got Away (2013)
“Grafton Street” – Safe Trip Home (2008)
“Happy New Year” – Girl Who Got Away (2013)
“Here with Me” – No Angel (1999)
“Honestly OK” – No Angel (1999)
“Hunter” – No Angel (1999)
“If I Rise” – 127 Hours: Music from the Motion Picture (2010)
“I Eat Dinner (When the Hunger’s Gone)” – Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason (2004)
“I’m No Angel” – No Angel (1999)
“Isabel” – No Angel (1999)
“It Comes and It Goes” – Safe Trip Home (2008)

(J – N)

(O – Z)

“One Step Too Far” – Outrospective (2002)
“Paris” – White Flag/Paris (2003)
“Quiet Times” – Safe Trip Home (2008)
“Sand in My Shoes” – Life for Rent (2003)
“See the Sun” – Life for Rent (2003)
“See You When You’re 40” – Life for Rent (2003)
“Sing” – Songs of Mass Destruction (2007)
“Sitting on the Roof of the World” – Girl Who Got Away (2013)
“Slide” – No Angel (1999)
“Smalltown Boy” – BBC2 (2013)
“Stan” – The Marshall Mathers LP (1999)
“Stoned” – Life for Rent (2003)
“Summer” – Safe Trip Home (2008)
“Take My Hand” – No Angel (1999)
“Thank You” – No Angel (1999)
“The Day Before the Day” – Safe Trip Home (2008)
“This Land Is Mine” – Life for Rent (2003)
“Us 2 Little Gods” – Safe Trip Home (2008)
“White Flag” – Life for Rent (2003)
“Who Makes You Feel” – Life for Rent (2003)
“Worthless” – No Angel (1999)

Check out our fantastic and entertaining Dido articles, detailing in-depth the band’s albums, songs, band members, and more…all on ClassicRockHistory.com

Top 10 Dido Songs

Complete List Of Dido Albums And Songs

Read More: Artists’ Interviews Directory At ClassicRockHistory.com

Read More: Classic Rock Bands List And Directory

Complete List Of Dido Songs From A – Z article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2024

About The Author

Brian Kachejian

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Brian Kachejian was born in Manhattan and raised in the Bronx. He is the founder and Editor in Chief of ClassicRockHistory.com. He has spent thirty years in the music business often working with many of the people who have appeared on this site. Brian Kachejian also holds B.A. and M.A. degrees from Stony Brook University along with New York State Public School Education Certifications in Music and Social Studies. Brian Kachejian is also an active member of the New York Press.

Ian Anderson casts a reflective eye over “all God’s children” on The Tippu House, another new release from the band’s upcoming album Curious Ruminant.

Jethro Tull have announced that they will release their 24th studio album, Curious Ruminant, through InsideOut Music on March 7, an album that harks back to the band’s classic 1970s sound, with Anderson in an introspective lyrical mode which brings to mind 1975’s Minstrel In The Gallery.

“The Tipu House is a song of aspiration in adversity,” the Tull mainman muses. “As a city wanderer, camera in hand, I often pass tawdry abodes and luxurious dwellings alike wondering as to the nature of the occupants, their lives and dreams. Our societies are filled with those who have risen from relative poverty to positions of greatness in the world and their successes are a beacon of hope for the rest of us, even if “greatness” is a relative concept at the end of it all.”

The new album features nine new tracks which very much hark back to the band’s classic 1970s sound, not least the epic near-17-minute Drink From The Same Well, the band’s longest song since the 16 minute 39 seconds of Baker St, Muse, also on the aforementioned Minstrel In The Gallery. Unlike 2002’s The Zealot Gene and 2023’s RökFlöte, Curious Ruminant is not, however, a concept album.

Curious Ruminant features contributions from former keyboardist Andrew Giddings and drummer James Duncan, along with the current band members David Goodier, John O’Hara, Scott Hammond and, making his recording debut with the band, guitarist Jack Clark.

Curious Ruminant will be available on several different formats, including a limited deluxe ultra clear 180g 2LP + 2CD + Blu-ray artbook and limited deluxe 2CD+Blu-ray artbook. Both of these feature the main album, alternative stereo mixes and a Blu-ray containing Dolby Atmos & 5.1 Surround Sound (once again undertaken by Bruce Soord of The Pineapple Thief), as well as exclusive interview material. The limited deluxe vinyl artbook also includes in two exclusive art-prints. The album will also be available as a special edition CD digipak, gatefold 180g LP + LP-booklet and as a digital album (in both stereo & Dolby Atmos).

Pre-order Curious Remnant.

UK proggers Solstice have announced that they will release their brand new album, Clann, through specialist US label Progrock.com Essentials on April 4.

The news comes as the band have won Best Band in the Prog Magazine Readers’ Poll, the results of which are in the brand new issue, which is on sale today.

On top of that band leader Andy Glass topped the Guitarist category, singer Jess Holland came secind in the Vocalist category, Steve McDaneil third in the Keyboard category and Pete Hemsley eighth in the Drummer category. Plus backing vocalist Ebony Buckle won the Best New Band/Artist category for her solo work.

“Oh man, to be honest this is beyond our wildest dreams,” exclaims Glass. “To be acknowledged like this is what every band dreams of so thank you so much to everybody who’s supporting us right now and huge respect and gratitude to Jerry for the love and conviction that’s created this magazine for us all to explore and discover the music we love. This absolutely means the world to us believe me.”

The five-track Clann is the band’s eighth album, following on from the acclaimed previous albums Sia (2020) and Light Up (2022) and represents the third album in a trilogy of releases. A single, Firefly, will be released on February 14.

“[Sia] made me realise the potential and by the time we were working on Light Up the whole band had raised its game,” Glass explains. “I believed then that a trilogy of albums was what it would take to create our best work and track that journey. Clann is the final album in the Sia Trilogy and it’s everything I’d hoped it would be. Let’s hope the universe likes it too.”

The band have also announced tour dates throughout April in support of the new album, which you can see below. They will be supported on various dates by Leoni Jane Kennedy, Ebony Buckle and Ocular.

Clann will be available on gatefold vinyl, both black and coloured variants, and as a triple gatefold digipak CD.

Pre-order Clann.

Solstice: Clann
1. Firefly
2. Life
3. Plunk
4. Frippa
5. Twin Peaks

Solstice Clann tour dates 2025

Apr 5: Oundle Queen Victoria Hall *
Apr 9: Southampton The 1865 *
Apr 10: Cardiff Earl Haig Club *
Apr 11: Nottingham The Old Cold Store *
Apr 12: Huddersfield The Parish *
Apr 13: Sheffield The Corporation *
Apr 17: Colchester Arts Centre #
Apr 18: Milton Keynes The Craufurd >
Apr 20: London The Dome #

* Support from Leoni Jane Kennedy
# Support from Ebony Buckle
> Support from Ocular

Get tickets.

Spotify has seemingly used a playlist to acknowledge a recent interview where Spiritbox singer Courtney LaPlante was confused for singer/songwriter Poppy.

This weekend, Poppy, who’d collaborated with hardcore band Knocked Loose on the song Suffocate, and Spiritbox were both nominated for the Grammy Award For Best Metal Performance. Both attended the Los Angeles ceremony, and one interviewer unwittingly went viral when she confused LaPlante with Poppy during a chat on the red carpet.

Despite initially giving her interviewer a skeptical look, LaPlante ran with it, ‘confirming’ that she is Poppy. “Really happy to be here again; would love to take home the Grammy for Knocked Loose and myself because I would be the first woman to win this award,” she added.

Now, it seems the gaffe has become so well-known that even Spotify are in on it. LaPlante currently appears in the cover image of the streaming behemoth’s ‘Kickass Metal’ playlist – but the caption beneath calls her Poppy.

“Poppy on top of today’s best Metal playlist,” it says.

See a screenshot below.

Ultimately, neither Poppy nor Spiritbox claimed a Grammy this year, with the winner of Best Metal Performance being Gojira. The French metal favourites won with their rendition of revolutionary song Ah! Ça Ira, which they performed with opera singer Marina Viotti in a fiery display at the 2024 Olympic Games opening ceremony.

Spiritbox will release their highly anticipated second album, Tsunami Sea, on March 7. The band will start a European tour this month, kicking it off with their biggest-ever UK headline show at the 10,000-capacity Alexandra Palace in London. They’re also set to tour North America from April.

See dates and details via the Spiritbox website.

As for Poppy, she put out new album Negative Spaces in November and will begin her They’re All Around Us tour of North America next month. See dates and details via the singer’s website.

One of the most exciting and hyped young bands in modern metal return this year, and they’re on the cover of our magazine. As Spiritbox prepare to play London’s historic Alexandra Palace and release their much-anticipated new album Tsunami Sea, we speak to the band about their whirlwind success and the road ahead.

Since releasing debut album Eternal Blue in 2021, the Canadians have played stadiums with Korn and Bring Me The Horizon and collaborated with rap superstar Megan Thee Stallion. In June, they’ll support Linkin Park on their stadium tour.

“We’re just getting started!” says frontwoman Courtney LaPlante. “We make it a joke, but deep down, the goal is world domination.”

Even though her dreams were coming true, Courtney found herself experiencing depression during the writing and recording of Tsunami Sea, which led to feelings of guilt.

“This album is a peek into those dark feelings you have, and you almost feel ashamed that you’re being such a freaking baby about stuff, you know?” she says. “I was really going through a really rough time when I was recording it. The screaming parts were letting out a lot of anger, but the singing parts made me really sad.”

“We’ll always try to be what I call ‘hilariously heavy’,” says guitarist Mike Stringer, of how it sounds. “I think we kind of hit a sweet spot with the heavy stuff on this record, where it’s familiar but it’s a step forward.”

Elsewhere in the new issue of Metal Hammer, we investigate the ‘Durstnaissance’, aka the rising popularity of Limp Bizkit, ahead of their big UK arena tour.

Meanwhile, Killswitch Engage frontman Jesse Leach gets the Metal Hammer Interview treatment, and we take Wardruna’s Einar Selvik foraging in a London graveyard – because why not?

Parkway Drive tells us the inside story of posi anthem Vice Grip, Lacuna Coil look back on 30 years of triumph and tragedy – from breaking out at Ozzfest to run-ins with the FBI – and ‘post-deathcore’ crew Fit For An Autopsy explain why they’re compelled to sing and scream about the issues that matter where so many of their peers won’t.

Rising Scottish stars Vukovi talk exorcising demons and sex with Greek Gods, goth metal king Chris Motionless defends his love of Taylor Swift, and we meet Paleface Swiss, the Zurich foursome dubbed the ‘deathcore Slipknot’.

All this along with Avantasia, Divide And Dissolve, Apocalyptica, Chat Pile, Guns N’ Roses, Dream Theater, Slipknot, The Prodigy, Ithaca and much, much more.

Only in the new issue of Metal Hammer, on sale now. Order it online and have it delivered straight to your door. (And yes, we definitely interviewed the right band).